I would like to begin programming games and I was wondering if anyone has any tips for getting started. I know I would like to use c++ to learn but that is about it. Any help would be appreciated.

Get a book
get a compiler (i recommend GCC)
get friends that know what they are talking about and also use GCC

I would get a good compiler IDE enviroment like VC++6 or Borlands C++ builder. I am thinking about moving to Borland or Codewarrior? Then get a real good C++ book, e.g. C++ Primer Plus by Stephen Prata. This book is way more in depth than a 24hour teach yourself C++ book. It assumes you know nothing and teaches you in depth the basics of C++. Then learn that book like the back of your hand! Take it from me I tried to jump into 2D before I could do a simple text based game or even know anything about classes or advanced topics in C++. I still don''t know enough to code 2D let alone 3D! I have taken a semester of C++ at college and isn''t enough to do graphics yet! So its a long road ahead but its worth it if you stick with it. =) I can remember when I first started out and didn''t even know anything about functions or how to pass by reference, instead I passed with variables. So its a never ending learning process. Then once your good at that I would learn the Win32 API. Get good with that and then go with OpenGL or DirectX your choice.

Windows 98/SE/ME SUCKS!
Deal with it!
if(windows crashes)
run Linux
else
yeah right!!

RESIST WINDOWS XP!!!!!!!!!!
RESIST .NET TECH!!!!!!!!!!!

First buy a very good book.
Check into one of these titles:
Accelerated C++
Effective C++
More Effective C++
C++ How To Program
The C++ Programming Language

Next, download Borland''s free compiler at borland.com.
Even better yet, buy Borland C++ Builder.

Now you have all the tools, learn learn learn, practice, test, learn, fail and learn, learn.

MSVC and BCB are good compilers, but they do cost too much if you aren''t sure how much you want to put into programming. You can try DevC++ (which is an IDE that uses MingW32, the Win32 port of GCC), DJGPP (pretty much a DOS port of GCC), BCC 5.5.1 (the free command line Borland Compiler), or just use GCC/G++ (if you''re in Linux) with VIM or KDevelop.


http://druidgames.cjb.net/ (If my website isn''t down, it''s a miracle!)